AC Units 101

AC units come in a variety of makes, models, types, and sizes. Among the different types, you’ve got window air conditioners, portable air conditioners, central air conditioners, and ductless air conditioners. Here’s a quick rundown:

Window Air Conditioners – This type of air conditioner is designed to cool a single room and is easy to install.

Portable Air Conditioners – Also designed to cool a single room and relatively easy to install. However, these air conditioners sit on the ground (similar to a fan) and can be moved from room to room.

Central Air Conditioners – The most popular choice in AC units. Central air conditioners are typically more efficient than single room systems. They cool the entire house, and do it conveniently and quietly, while being out of the way. Central air conditioners operate by circulating cool air through a system of supply and return air ducts.

Ductless Air Conditioners – These AC units are similar to central air, in that they have two parts, the outdoor compressor/condenser and an indoor air-handling unit. However, ductless air conditioners just need a 3-inch hole through the wall for the conduit. These units are meant to cool a single room. They can be installed on the wall, suspended from the ceiling, or as a standing unit. These AC units are actually more efficient than central air conditioners, but they cost more, too.